What the consumer needs to know. A Buyer s Guide to. Aids. Helping the world hear better

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1 Helping the world hear better A Buyer s Guide to Hearing Aids What the consumer needs to know. The information contained in this report is intended for educational purpose only and should not replace the advice from a hearing care professional Beltone - All rights reserved.

2 Hearing Loss is on the Rise While hearing loss affects people of all ages, it is often associated with old age. This association makes sense since hearing loss is the third most common health condition affecting adults over 65 after arthritis and heart disease. However, hearing loss does not only affect older adults; about 40% of the nearly 31 million Americans suffering from hearing impairment are under the age of 65. And, thanks in large part to listening to loud music through ear buds, it is estimated that 8% of people ages have hearing loss, as do 20% of teenagers! Hearing loss can happen for a number of reasons, but the main factors that contribute are heredity and chronic exposure to loud noises. Unfortunately, you cannot reverse hearing loss. But the good news is with all of the recent advancements in technology, you can now find a wide variety of discrete options to treat your specific needs.

3 How Hearing Aid Technology Works A hearing aid is a small device that can be worn in or behind the ear. It amplifies sounds so that a person suffering from hearing loss can better listen and communicate with others. Hearing aids typically have three parts: a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker. The microphone receives sound and converts the sound waves into electrical signals. Those signals then move to the amplifier, which increases the power of those signals. Finally, these elevated electrical signals are sent to the ear via the speaker. Signs That You or Someone Your Love Might Have a Hearing Loss Family or friends often repeat themselves Trouble hearing the television at normal volume levels Frustration not clearly understanding others Trouble hearing background noises Embarrassment from being unable to hear when meeting new people Yes to Any of the Above? Act Now!

4 How Hearing Aid Technology Works If you suspect that you or someone close to you is experiencing hearing loss, the time to act is NOW. Here's why: Hearing loss deprives the brain of needed stimulation. Under-utilizing the brain's "hearing center" causes it to atrophy and can actually accelerate hearing loss. The longer a hearing impairment goes untreated, the harder it becomes to treat later. Studies have linked hearing loss with a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's and dementia. It is theorized that when people must strain to hear, the brain has to divert resources from other areas in order to decode the incoming sound. Researchers believe this "brain drain" may cause memory loss. Recent studies have tied hearing loss to balance issues and falls. Hearing loss is often linked to depression and isolation, which can also contribute to memory loss. These are just some reasons why baseline hearing screening is recommended by age 50. However, studies show that less than 15% of physicians test for hearing loss, so a visit to a specialized hearing care professional using the latest diagnostic technology is highly suggested.

5 Beltone - Bringing Hearing Aids into the 21st Century Although 95% of hearing loss can be helped by hearing aids, only 14% of individuals who need help get it. Denial and embarrassment are part of the reason, as are widely-held misconceptions about hearing aids. However, thanks to modern technology, today's hearing aids are incredibly tiny, lightweight and comfortable. Most are virtually invisible and there are numerous styles available, from petite behindthe-ear models, to invisible in-the-canal models, to the barely noticeable receiver-in-the-ear styles.

6 Known for significant investment in research and development, Beltone leads the industry in technological achievement. Each valued client's hearing aids are custom-programmed via proprietary software for optimum performance. And, Beltone is the first manufacturer to offer 2.4 GHz wireless accessories that "stream" clean, clear sound from your TV, stereo, PC, phone and other devices. Let Us Help You! Recognizing and addressing hearing loss provides numerous benefits to one's health and overall happiness. Treating hearing loss improves relationships within the home and family. Using hearing instruments reduces anger frustration, paranoia and anxiety. Good hearing reduces the risk of falls, memory loss and depression. According to a survey by the Better Hearing Institute, 9 out of 10 people who use hearing instruments reported an improved quality of life. Good hearing keeps people safer in the world, thus preserving independence.